Wales captain and former Arsenal midfielder, Aaron Ramsey, has retired from professional football at the age of 35.
Ramsey made more than 250 Premier League appearances for Arsenal and played 86 times for Wales, scoring 21 goals.
He had been without a club since his contract with Mexican side UNAM was terminated my mutual consent last October, having moved to Central America following a second spell at boyhood club Cardiff, as well as a brief period as interim manager.
Making the announcement on his personal Instagram, Ramsey said, “This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football.
“Firstly, I want to start with Wales. It has been my privilege to wear the Welsh shirt and experience so many incredible moments in it. It would not have been possible without the incredible input of all the managers I have played under and all the staff who have helped me in many ways.
“To the Red Wall. You have been there through thick and thin! You have been there through the highs and lows, and you have been an essential and indispensable part of our success. I can’t thank you enough. We’ve been through everything together, and it’s been an honour to represent you. Diolch.
“Secondly, thank you to all the clubs I’ve been lucky enough to play for.
“Thank you to all the managers and staff that have helped me be able to live my dream and play at the highest level.
“And a huge thank you to my wife and children and all my family. Without you by my side throughout, none of this would have been possible.”
Wales paid their own tribute in response, calling Ramsey a “world-class talent” and an “integral part of the golden generation that made international history”, having helped his country to three major tournaments and a memorable run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016 in France, where he was named in the team of the tournament.
Ramsey began his career at Cardiff City before being signed by legendary Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.
He played 369 games for the Gunners, scoring 64 goals. He was part of the team that lost out in the Europa League final to Chelsea in 2019.
Upon his departure, he signed for Juventus, where he won Serie A and made 70 appearances, scoring six goals.
Ramsey went on to play for Nice, Rangers, Cardiff, and Pumas before Tuesday’s announcement.
